Gerald
high pHs limit the uptake of certain nutrients thus, at a very high pH of 8 your plants may not be getting the correct micro nutrients.
many people think that the only nutrients are N,P,K.
there are actually 14 other essential nutrients that all need to be in balance.
Different plants deplete and deposit these nutrients different ways
as far as your opinion on soil samples, as important as getting the sample done, it is just as important to have a soil scientist read the results and make a recommendation.
no offense to your parish agent, but he may not be qualified in this area.
thats just my take on things,
i have some presentations from my soil fertility classes on my laptop at home if anyone would like to see them i can email them, maybe it will help you out
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